‘Simply the Best’ Chris Eubank will be forever remembered in British boxing for his incredible achievements.
From Eubank’s epic rivalry with Nigel Benn to his impressive 45-5-2 record, the Englishman is a true boxing legend.
Having a brave and hearty boxing style as well as a huge personality, Eubank was a key figure for the sport in the 1990s. Now, in 2025, his son Chris Eubank Jr. will compete in one of boxing’s biggest fights, taking on Conor Benn.
Although Eubank’s achievements are already lengthy, the legend was close to adding another accolade to his impressive resume.
Chris Eubank lost cruiserweight world championship fight against Carl Thompson
Although Eubank exhausted Joe Calzaghe in 1997, he could not defeat the unbeaten fighter to reclaim a world super middleweight title.
‘Simply the Best’ was looking to once again become a champion after Eubank lost to Steve Collins. However, he was unsuccessful.
Despite the loss, Eubank did not give up hope of reclaiming a world title. For his next attempt, he would make a move to cruiserweight.
Weighing in at a career-high 186.5 lbs, Eubank challenged WBO World Cruiserweight title holder Carl Thompson (22-4). The champion had won the title in his last outing, defeating Ralf Rocchigiani.
The pair of English fighters would fight in Manchester on April 18th, 1998. However, Thompson would make his first title defense.
It was a close bout between the two. This even included Eubank knocking Thompson down in round four. Despite this, the judges would score the bout 114-113, 114-113, and 116-113 in favor of the champion.
It was the fourth loss of Eubank’s career as he made his cruiserweight debut.
Chris Eubank’s final fight would be a second loss to Carl Thompson
As they had a tightly contested fight in their first meeting, Eubank and Thompson would rematch three months later.
Although Eubank was ahead on the scorecards after nine rounds, he would not emerge for the 10th round. As Eubank’s eye closed due to swelling, the doctor advised the fight to be stopped.
This meant Thompson had defeated Eubank for a second time, as well as once again defending his title. Eubank would not step in the ring again, rounding off an incredible career.